Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” Shatters Records and Dominates Hip-Hop Feuds – African American News and Issues
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Kendrick Lamar has once again demonstrated his formidable presence in the hip-hop industry with his latest track, “Not Like Us.” The song has not only captivated audiences but also broken significant records, previously held by his long-time rival, Drake. This development is the latest in a series of highly publicized confrontations between the two artists, underscoring the competitive and often contentious nature of the hip-hop scene.
“Not Like Us” emerged as a powerful diss track aimed directly at Drake, who has been a central figure in Kendrick’s lyrical crosshairs for some time. The song addresses a variety of controversial issues, including personal accusations and pointed criticisms of Drake’s career and personal life. Despite the incendiary content, or perhaps because of it, the track has achieved unprecedented success on streaming platforms.
Within its first day of release, “Not Like Us” shattered the record for the most single-day streams for a hip-hop song on Spotify. The track garnered over 11.85 million streams, surpassing the previous record held by Drake’s “Girls Want Girls” featuring Lil Baby, which had achieved 6.593 million streams in a single day. This milestone underscores Kendrick’s immense influence and the high level of anticipation and engagement his music generates among fans.
The success of “Not Like Us” is particularly notable given the nature of diss tracks, which traditionally serve as platforms for artists to vent personal grievances and assert dominance over rivals. While such tracks often attract attention, they do not always achieve the commercial success of more mainstream releases. Kendrick’s ability to combine sharp lyrical content with widespread commercial appeal is a testament to his artistry and strategic acumen in the music industry.
In addition to breaking streaming records, “Not Like Us” has fueled ongoing discussions and debates within the hip-hop community. Fans and critics alike have dissected the lyrics, analyzing Kendrick’s pointed references to various incidents and aspects of Drake’s life and career. The song’s impact has extended beyond streaming numbers, influencing social media conversations and sparking a wave of reactions from both supporters and detractors of the two artists.
The rivalry between Kendrick Lamar and Drake is not a new phenomenon. It has evolved over several years, with both artists using their music to address and escalate their disputes. This dynamic has contributed to some of the most memorable moments in recent hip-hop history, as each new release adds another layer to their ongoing saga. The competitive nature of their relationship has arguably pushed both artists to greater creative heights, resulting in music that resonates deeply with their respective fan bases.
Kendrick’s strategic release of “Not Like Us” can also be seen as a calculated move to capitalize on the current landscape of hip-hop, where feuds and rivalries often drive engagement and boost visibility. By directly challenging one of the industry’s biggest names, Kendrick has ensured that his music remains at the forefront of public discourse, capturing the attention of listeners and media outlets alike.
As “Not Like Us” continues to climb the charts and break records, it is clear that Kendrick Lamar’s influence in the music industry remains as potent as ever. His ability to blend personal commentary with commercial success sets him apart as a unique force in hip-hop. Fans eagerly anticipate his next move, while industry observers watch closely to see how this latest chapter in the Kendrick-Drake rivalry unfolds.
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
